Skin Disorders and Quality of Life: An Overview
摘要
Skin disorders constitute a global health problem that impacts millions of people of different ages and groups, with varying levels of severity and duration. These disorders can considerably affect patients’ quality of life (QoL) and their cohabitants, impacting physical, psychological, social, and emotional aspects. This chapter investigates the hidden burden of skin diseases on QoL and the importance of addressing these effects in clinical and research settings. It reviews the current literature on the various facets of QoL that are influenced by skin diseases, such as physical pain, mental anguish, social isolation, and emotional challenges. It also describes the different methods and tools used to measure the impact of skin diseases on QoL. Furthermore, it explores the implications of these results for offering information, support, and treatment to patients, aiming to improve their QoL and well-being. Finally, it advocates for a holistic approach to dermatological care that regards and treats the person as a whole, recognizing the intricate and dynamic relationship between skin health and QoL.